Classification of Forklift Trucks
Forklift trucks have been working its magic for roughly 100 years now. Even today, this type of machinery is found in each and every warehouse operation all around the globe.
Because of WWI, there were shortages of manpower which ed to the construction of the first forklifts. Companies like Yale & Town and Clark introduced the material handling equipment that used powered lift tractors in their factories. During 1918, Clark saw the potential for these machinery and started selling them.
From a basic tractor with an attachment, the design of forklifts changed during the 1920s, to a dedicated machinery equipped with a vertical lifting mast. The forklift developed and became more sophisticated with WWII. The forklift played an important role during this time in the handling of supplies for different armies throughout the globe. It was also at this time that wooden pallets were introduced that proved the need for the lift truck in the material handling industry.
As soon as WWII ended, the forklift gained momentum and continued to develop. During the 1950s, battery operated forklifts made an appearance. There were other more specialized forklift models introduced like the Narrow Aisle Reach truck. This type was made by the Raymond Corporation. During the 1960s and 1970s, improvements were made in the electronic controls area. This made forklifts a lot more versatile and businesses were able to look at warehouse efficiency.
There are many options you can use to power a forklift today. These comprise electric battery, diesel, compressed natural gas or CNG, gasoline, LPG or liquid propane gas. The very first hybrid forklift was developed by Mitsubishi. It currently runs on diesel battery and lithium ion. This particular kind consumes 39 percent less fuel than existing models. Statistics prove that its carbon dioxide emissions are roughly 14.6 tons less than those types of forklifts which are powered by IC or internal combustion engines.